The work of Caritas in support of Ukrainian refugees in Finland continues. Father Andrii Khomen’s work includes numerous meetings and events with Ukrainians.
On the last Saturday of January, Ukrainians from across the country gathered at Lauttasaari Church to celebrate. Bishop Raimo Goyarrola, the Ukrainian Ambassador Mykhailo Vydoinyk, and representatives of Ukrainian communities from different parts of the country attended the celebration.
“Every Ukrainian family living in a foreign country needs the support of a community and also moments of celebration. That is why building connections between people is extremely important. I want Ukrainians living in Finland to know that they are not alone,” Father Andrii says.
Many Ukrainians who have fled the war need support in building their spiritual, psychological, and moral well-being.
“They have lost loved ones, and here in Finland, many are burdened by work or family responsibilities. For some, even everyday routines are overwhelming. We are organizing a family camp where participants will hopefully regain strength,” Andrii explains.
There are separate programs for children and adults. At the camp, adults receive support from, for example, an economist, a theologian, and a psychologist.
In the summer, Ukrainians can take part in a family camp or a youth camp.
Father Andrii also works within the diocese, celebrating Masses around the country, for example, in Lahti, Rauma, Tampere, and Turku.
This winter is cold also in Ukraine
In February, four years will have passed since the beginning of the war in Ukraine. The number of Ukrainian refugees in Finland increased significantly.
“Ukrainians continue to feel fear, as the war is not over. Many relatives, acquaintances, and friends are at the front, many civilians are in occupied territories, near the front lines, or even several hundred kilometers from the front, but in areas that are shelled by Russia repeatedly. This winter, which is similar to winters in Finland, is the hardest of all the years of the war”, says Father Andrii.
People—adults and children—spend up to 20 hours without light, electricity, or heat.
“Russia, which attacked Ukraine not only for territories but also to destroy the peaceful Ukrainian people, is using the cold as yet another deadly weapon. My own brother is at the front, and we are very worried about him. On the other hand, Ukrainians have a strong sense that Ukraine will prevail, because despite the harsh circumstances of this war and the cruelty of Russia towards Ukrainians, Ukraine still stands, fights, and prays. Ukrainians have no doubt that victory is on our side”, says Andrii at the end.
Caritas continues to support Ukraine and Ukrainians. The Lenten Collection, which begins on Ash Wednesday, will be used for Caritas’ work in Finland. The proceeds will also be used for camps for Ukrainians living in Finland.
We also support Ukrainians in Ukraine through joint projects on an ongoing basis. You can support the work being done in Ukraine with a one-time donation or monthly.
